Moroccan Minister Stresses Territorial Integrity
On September 3, 2026, Nizar Baraka, the Moroccan Minister of Public Works and Water, reiterated Morocco's claim over Ceuta, emphasizing that while Spain is considered a "critical partner," Rabat will not retreat an inch from its territorial claims. During a rally for the Istiqlal party, which he leads, Baraka addressed concerns regarding national security raised by Spain following recent events in Ceuta, stating, "What should we say to our neighbor Spain after the incidents in Ceuta? We have been informed that they believe national security has been compromised."
Baraka's comments came amid escalating tensions with Spain following a significant influx of migrants on July 30. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reaffirmed the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Spain over Ceuta and Melilla, labeling these issues as "red lines" in the relationship with Rabat. In a special session of Congress, Sánchez defended the "policy of good neighborliness with Morocco" while also insisting that Spain would always protect its legitimate claims, particularly concerning Ceuta and Melilla.
In light of the events at the border in July, Sánchez advocated for a "prudent" approach to relations with Morocco and revealed that Spain summoned Moroccan Ambassador Karima Benyaich on August 21, a detail that had not been made public previously and faced criticism from both coalition partners and opposition. Recently, several Moroccan ministers have expressed their views on the territorial claims over the two autonomous cities, with the Minister of Religious Affairs, Ahmed Tufiq, notably speaking of the "liberation" of Ceuta and Melilla in the presence of King Mohammed VI.
As reported by mallorca-services.es.
